Abstract The paper presents the hypothesis that for all the destruction and bloodshed inflicted upon the world by Muslim fanatics, Islam is, in essence and in its original form, not a violent religion. The paper provides a literature review and shows how the Koran teaches a peaceful and loving way of life. The paper discusses, however, how the principles of the Koran and the very interpretation of the Islamic tradition have undergone changes through the years, with politics influencing the religion. The paper therefore concludes that the widespread incidents of violence, destruction and bloodshed more realistically reveal the inherently violent nature of Islam.
Outline:
Hypothesis
Literature Review
Findings
Conclusion
From the Paper "The author writes about the basis of conduct as taught by the Koran. The Islamic faith is founded on certain principles. These include free will and choice, peaceful dialogue, acceptance and understanding, disapproval of terrorism and non-violence. Every Muslim is bound to conduct intellectual dialogue with others to establish and improve relations. Islam teaches Muslims to be kind, tolerant, and understanding and to develop bonds with all people. The Koran teaches that the purpose of creation is for people to deal with one another with kindness and that piety is the best virtue."
This paper is based on a quote from the book "My Brother Sam is Dead" by Collier and Collier. The quote " Could the United States have made its way without all that agony and killing?" directs the argument throughout the paper.
Abstract This paper takes a quote from the book "My Brother Sam is Dead" and discusses whether or not the U.S. could have survived without so much bloodshed. The writer of this paper allows for the discussion of American policies and historical decisions that have caused killing in the name of Americans. The paper focuses mainly on the period around the Civil War and the expansion to the West.
From the Paper "Throughout American history residents have been led to believe that the American Revolution was a necessary evil that could not be avoided at any costs. The killing and the agony that was involved in that revolution have been taught in classrooms since the beginning of public education as necessary to the cause(Collier, 1989). In more recent years however, many have begun to question whether or not it was really as necessary as it has been portrayed over the years. In a book by Lincoln and Christopher Collier called My Brother Sam is Dead the possibility of there being to much violence used comes to light through the telling of the plot. After reading the book the answer to the question Could the United States have made its way without all that agony and killing? Becomes a startling and revealing no."
Abstract This paper examines how religion has had an impact on diplomatic practice all over the world, with mixed results. It shows how historically speaking, the religion/diplomacy venture can be viewed as a successful one- provided we understand the objective of this diplomacy to be the infliction of as much bloodshed, intolerance and subversion upon mankind as is humanly possible. It examines how acting as agents of religion, governments far and wide throughout the course of human history have sought to oppress their neighbors under a banner of religious truth and moral conquest and how in the modern context, holy wars are truly no less frequent than they have ever been. It looks at how religion has effected diplomatic practice since the very inception of civilization, as founding political precepts most often revolved around some concept of divinity. Indeed, most nations have traditionally sought to integrate religion and diplomatic practice into one seamless entity, for religion was understood as the ultimate justification for any sort of escapade into foreign territory.
From the Paper "The legacy of the Crusades has endured. The Muslims, once tolerant of Christians, developed a hatred and suspicion for the Christian faith that endures to this day. The outcome of the Crusades led to the Turkish wars of later years, in which Islamic expansion into Europe and the Balkans would set the stage for future Muslim-Christian conflicts. Also significant, the ideology behind the Crusades exists today as well. Religious persecution is not uncommon in the modern global context; the impact of religion upon diplomatic practice remains heavy-handed enough to provide us with contemporary examples of many a spirited genocide and plunder."
This paper explores the history of Roman gladiators, including the different types of gladiators, gladiator training, and the Judeo-Christian view of gladiator combat.
Abstract This paper explains how the Romans believed that they inherited the practice of gladiatorial games from the Etruscans, who used them as a part of a funeral ritual; servants dueled to the death for the right to provide companionship to their owners in eternity. It explores how the gladiatorial battles were warranted as strengthening the Roman citizens to the sight of human bloodshed so they could tolerate war better. In some ways, the Romans were the most civilized people of the ancient world, although their advancement and enlightened way of life did not conceal the dark reality of gladiatorial combat, which is unacceptable in modern times.
From the Paper "The word "gladiator" meant one who carries a sword. A gladiator was a skilled warrior who fought to the death in battles to entertain the ancient Romans. Gladiatorial games were immediately and extremely popular within the Roman Empire. Gladiators entered the arena with the intent to kill each other; thus, Roman spectators observed men facing death and trying to overcome it. The games themselves presented ways for Rome to display the power of their empire, although the early Christians associated the games with human sacrifice and a total disregard for the value of human life and rights."
Abstract This paper outlines the current Israeli administration's withdrawal plan from the Gaza Strip. The paper explains the reasons for the decision to withdraw from the settlements even though the withdrawal comes without any concessions from the Palestinians, discusses the degree of support as well as opposition to the withdrawal and analyzes the implications of such a move. The paper concludes with the finding that the decision to withdraw from Gaza represents a first step towards ending the mistrust, bloodshed and terrorism that has so long characterized the Israeli-Palestinian relationship.
From the Paper "Code name: Last Watch-In a 'bold move to end the stalemate in the peace process' , Israel finally pulled out of the Gaza strip as well as four settlements in the West Bank. It thereby ended Israel's occupation of Palestinian lands, which were captured in the Six-Day War in 1967. Approximately 8,500 Gaza settlers were removed from the 21 settlements. Homes, schools and military infrastructure were razed to the ground, all except electricity, pipes and roads. Torah scrolls and other sacred items were safely squirreled away as the settlers finally left Gaza. Nineteen synagogue buildings were left intact, though, a last-minute decision by the Israeli Cabinet, which displeased the Palestinians as they would be the ones forced to demolish it."
Abstract This paper discusses the conflict between the Puritans and Native Americans regarding religious tolerance. It describes the history of the first settlers to the Americas in New England and their attitudes towards individuals who did not adhere to their doctrines. It also describes the attitudes of various leaders of the time and how the attitudes either changed or remained the same with the creation of the United States.
Table of Contents:
Introduction: The New Jerusalem
First Dealings, First Peace
Nathanial Ward: "Against Toleration"
John Wesley: A Cry Against Unchristian Bloodshed
From the Paper "Thus, although the First Amendment of the Bill of Rights may proclaim religious separation from all churches, America was actually founded by individuals seeking to create what today we would call a theocracy. Despite early amicable relations with the natives, eventually conflicts over territory caused the two populations to be hostile. The violence that ensued was justified by the religious rhetoric and beliefs of the Puritans, as they strove to create a New Jerusalem in a land that was inhabited by people whose civilization and faith they saw as inferior to their own, primitive at best, and savage at worst."
A study on whether the French Revolution was a true revolution or not, through a discussion of revolutions in general and the French Revolution in particular.
Abstract This paper examines the issues which can lead to a revolution, and illustrates how these issues were prevalent in France prior to the outbreak of the revolution. The paper outlines the social, economic and political problems in France in the years preceding the revolution. The writer also explains that through all the horror and bloodshed, there were also positive and far-reaching effects of the revolution for France as well as for Europe. The French Revolution brought about great long term changes in the society and government.
From the Paper "The French Revolution is known as one of the bloodiest revolutions in all of history, it claimed the lives of thousands of Frenchmen. The question that remains to be answered is, what was the cause for all this carnage?? It was during the years of 1789-1795 that turmoil arose and an outcry came from France, and in place of one of the oldest civilizations stood a new one filled with uncertainty, and the need to reform and build what remained of France. To reflect upon the reasons as to why such a revolution occurred, one must focus upon the main aspects troubling the country and it's people at this time."
Tags: louis, society, poverty, kingdom, government, national, convention, napoleon
Abstract This paper examines the Liberian Civil War from July 1 to July 25, 2003. The author notes that the civil war is being waged by government forces loyal to President Charles Taylor and rebel forces known as the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy, or LURD. He describes how the seemingly endless fighting has devastated the economy, destroyed all of Liberia's infrastructure, and taken a grievous toll on civilians, and concludes that American intervention has become increasingly likely, for it seems to be the only way to end the bloodshed.
Abstract This paper answers five specific essay questions on the subject of Mark Mazower's book, "Dark Continent: Europe's Twentieth Century". This book concentrates on the fact that Europe was a place of absolute bloodshed and social decay until the later part of the Twentieth Century, and that the Second World War arose from not only the Nazi Party but also these factors.
Abstract This paper is written on Abraham Lincoln's First Inaugural Address. There is an introduction, summary, analysis, and conclusion. Lincoln states his viewpoint on slavery and the separation of the Southern states. He pleads for the Southern states to not start bloodshed or a civil war.
Abstract This paper will discuss the Anglo-Irish treaty of 1921 that created a New Ireland in the wake of British Imperialism on the Irish island. By exploring the war for independence that created this treaty, we can see how it affected the people, as well as the way that British sovereignty was lessened in the aftermath of the bloodshed.
Abstract This research paper presents arguments against Vietnam War and the possible affects it had on the family dynamics, social standing and personal relationships of those who adhered to the decision not to partake in the war that only resulted in bloodshed, restrained relationships and loss of uncountable innocent lives. Moreover, the paper highlights the sufferings of those COs (Conscientious Objectors) whose fathers served in the military while Vietnam War gave birth to sorrow, poverty and hatred among the masses.
Abstract This paper, while emphasizing that most religions preach peace and brotherhood, takes a look at why, ironically, so many wars are fought in the name of religion. The paper explores the reasons for this irony and suggests that the violence and bloodshed in the name of various religions is a result of the religious leaders and their followers and not because religions promote or condone violence. Finally, the paper points out how violence in the name of religion can sully a religion's reputation.
From the Paper "For many years people all over the world have fought in the name of belief, faith or religion. The question that still remains to be unanswered is that when all religions of the world preach peace and brotherhood then why does its followers engage themselves in such violent activities? Violence in the name of religion has been one of the major causes of destruction in many countries today. An important point to ponder upon here is that religions are not violent, it is its followers that commit wrong acts in the name of faith and as a result destroy their religion's reputation and respect. It is not the religion but its preachers that associate religion with outrage."
Tags: dogmatism, racism, bigotry, multicultural, societies, terrorism, power, just, war, religious
Abstract This paper explains that, born into a time when self-serving aspirations in the name of the public welfare were the norm of public life, Niccolo Machiavelli wrote his two discourses on public government as a means of demonstrating the difference between moral and immoral governments. The author points out Erasmus taught that the moral being, which is the key to the understanding of a man's character, is the same measure that should be applied to the measure of a political leader. The paper relates that, writing in the middle 20th century, Cohn's work holds the skeptical perspective, which typifies his period by focusing on how prejudices and hatreds among the poor, especially against the Jews, the clergy, and the wealthy, were used by religious leaders in conjunction with the cultural apocalyptic expectations in order to give rise to mass movements that resulted in much mayhem and bloodshed.
Table of Contents
Niccolo Machiavelli
Erasmus
Norman Cohn
Conclusion
From the Paper "At the heart of the struggle across Europe was class struggle between rich and poor, between landowners and farmers who worked the land, or between poor and clergy. These ongoing struggles developed frequently into all out wars. Cohn follows the misapplied beliefs of the church, but fails to move beyond the tragic examples of those who would lead in the name of religion for their own purposed, to build a philosophy regarding how religious ethic can, and should form the mind of man in order to teach him how to lead for the benefit of others. Cohn does an excellent job of describing this process in detail and deals with much of the mysticism and religious beliefs surrounding it."
Abstract This paper discusses American history through a discussion of Gordon S. Wood's book, "The Radicalism of the American Revolution". The paper contends that Wood's reconstruction of the events and social changes leading up to the American Revolution 'shift' the story from one of rage against the King and bloodshed on the soil of the new nation to 'heroic commitment' on the part of Americans to change the monarchy and its paternalism into a republic built on creative new ways to celebrate and define a lifestyle more suitable to free people. The paper also reviews Natalie Zemon Davis's book, "The Return of Martin Guerre," in order to demonstrate different methods of recounting historical stories.
From the Paper "And while the styles of Davis and Wood are very different - in terms of the recounting of historical events - within the context of the story Davis tells there are two dramatically different approaches to the telling of that tale, albeit the tale has the same plot, characters, setting and themes. The type of approach to the mental world of Bertrande de Rols, the wife who actually collaborated with the imposter Arnaud de Tilh, that Davis offers in her book, Finlay writes, is "radically different" than that of author Jean de Coras' version. This makes a fascinating study into two versions of the same essential story. Coras, on the one hand, was most interested in "the marvelous deception" carried out by Arnaud, and had a "certain admiration" for Arnaud's cunning, Finlay writes (555). Meanwhile, Davis' focus is on the fact that the wife, Bertrande, was actually "Arnaud's accomplice, for she knew that the man claiming to be her husband was a fraud.""
